Easy Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Smothered Chicken and Rice wafting through your home. Picture this: succulent chicken swimming in a creamy sauce atop fluffy rice that just begs you to dig in. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort.

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I remember the first time I made this dish; my kitchen turned into a culinary battleground of flour and spices. My family gathered around the table, ready for a feast, their faces lighting up as they took their first bites. It was then I knew I had struck gold! Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering of friends, this recipe delivers flavor-packed joy every time.

Sharing my first attempt at this recipe brought smiles all around—my kids couldn’t get enough!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
• Vegetable Oil: Use this for browning the chicken; it helps create that delicious golden crust.
• Onion: One medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: A few cloves minced will elevate the flavor; use fresh garlic for best results.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth enhances flavor without overpowering; essential for creating the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: For that rich creaminess that makes everyone swoon; don’t skimp!
• Rice: Long-grain white rice works beautifully here; it’s fluffy and soaks up all those amazing juices.
• Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple but necessary; season generously to enhance every bite!

For the Sauce:

• Paprika: Adds depth; smoked paprika is my personal favorite for an extra kick.
• Dried Thyme: A teaspoon will infuse lovely earthy notes into your dish.
• Parsley (for garnish): Fresh herbs brighten everything up; sprinkle it generously before serving!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your countertop to streamline the process. Pre-chop onions and garlic to save time later in cooking.

Browning the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add seasoned chicken breasts; cook until golden brown on both sides—about 5 minutes per side.

Sautéing Aromatics: Remove chicken from the skillet once browned. In the same pan, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant—around 3-4 minutes.

Create the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any brown bits stuck to the pan. Stir in heavy cream along with paprika and thyme for an aromatic experience!

Add Back Chicken: Return browned chicken to the skillet, covering each piece with sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, allowing flavors to meld for about 15 minutes.

Cook Your Rice: Meanwhile, cook rice according to package instructions—fluffy white rice complements this dish perfectly! Serve it alongside or underneath your saucy chicken.

Enjoy every bite as you savor this warm embrace of flavors!

This Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe combines simplicity with heartwarming taste—a guaranteed hit at any dinner table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then prepare the rice while your sauce simmers to perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap white rice for brown or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove for best flavor retention.

Sometimes, I still remember that one dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about this dish—who knew smothered chicken could steal the show?

FAQ

What is the best type of rice for Smothered Chicken and Rice?

Long-grain white rice works best, but you can use brown rice for a healthier option.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, making it ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully; just reheat before serving.

Is Smothered Chicken and Rice spicy?

It can be! Adjust spices based on your preference for heat and flavor balance.

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Smothered Chicken and Rice

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• Author: recipesnew
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Smothered Chicken and Rice is a comforting, creamy dish featuring tender chicken in a rich sauce served over fluffy rice. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare ingredients by chopping onions and mincing garlic.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts and brown for about 5 minutes on each side; remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream, paprika, and thyme.
5. Return chicken to the skillet, cover with sauce, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Prepare rice according to package instructions while the sauce simmers, then serve chicken over or alongside the rice.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - Substitute long-grain rice with brown rice for a healthier option. - Add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition and color. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days and reheat gently.